Dr. Ngozi Florence Manafa, an educationist and Founder of Flora Field Montessori School and Flora Field College, has joined teachers, educationists, parents and learners around the world to mark the 2026 World Teachers' Day. This annual celebration, observed on October 5, recognises the contribution of teachers to education and the development of individuals and societies. Manafa described teaching as more than a profession, stressing that teachers play a fundamental role in shaping minds, nurturing talents and preparing young people for the challenges of the future.
Manafa said the influence of a teacher often extends far beyond the classroom, as educators inspire, guide, correct, encourage and help learners discover their abilities. According to her, behind virtually every profession and field of endeavour is a teacher who, at one point, helped to illuminate the path for those who later became doctors, engineers, lawyers, scientists, entrepreneurs, administrators and leaders. She noted that no society seeking sustainable development could afford to overlook the importance of teachers and the conditions under which they work.
Manafa acknowledged the challenges educators face, including diverse learning needs, changing technologies, demanding curricula, large workloads and increasing expectations from parents and society. Despite these challenges, she said teachers continue to report to classrooms and other learning environments each day with the responsibility of making a difference in the lives of their students. Manafa also noted that education should not be reduced to examination results or the acquisition of certificates.
Manafa said effective education should also help learners develop character, confidence, creativity, critical thinking and the ability to contribute positively to society. She further observed that an effective teacher looks beyond a child's immediate academic performance to identify potential and encourage development. A kind word from a teacher may restore a child's confidence, and a lesson may awaken a lifelong passion.
Manafa called for greater support for teachers, identifying professional development, decent working conditions, adequate learning resources and meaningful institutional support as some of the areas requiring sustained attention. She said supporting teachers was ultimately an investment in children, families and communities. Manafa stressed that every teacher matters, every classroom matters and every child matters.
Manafa has built her career around education, school leadership, teacher development and the development of children and young people. As Founder, Administrator and Head of School of Flora Field Montessori School and Flora Field College, she has focused on creating learning environments that promote the academic, social, creative and moral development of learners. Her approach to education is based on the belief that children should be given opportunities to learn, grow and discover their individual abilities.
Manafa recognised educators working across different levels and areas of learning, including early childhood teachers, primary school teachers, secondary school teachers, lecturers and teacher educators. She urged teachers not to underestimate the significance of their daily work, particularly when the results of their efforts are not immediately apparent. Manafa encouraged educators to remain committed to their responsibilities, despite the challenges associated with the profession.
Key points
- Dr. Ngozi Florence Manafa emphasises the role of teachers in shaping minds and societies.
- Manafa calls for greater support for teachers, including professional development and decent working conditions.
- Manafa recognises educators working across different levels and areas of learning.
